'I don't feel that I live in an independent country'

'I don't feel that I live in an independent country'

The city is gearing up for the commemoration of the 57th
anniversary of the country's independence. However, many common
people feel that they have not tasted the fruits of independence
as life is tough for them.

Asep, 19, is a hawker at Blok M bus terminal in South Jakarta
who sells beverages in a bucket he carries on his shoulder. He is
from Kuningan, West Java, and at the moment resides in Blok A,
South Jakarta:

I don't even feel that I live in an independent country,
despite the upcoming celebration of the 57th anniversary of
Indonesia's independence.

People say that an independent country is characterized by
citizens who live in prosperity and security so that it is easy
for people to earn a living.

But in fact, living here one lives in fear of horrible
crimes. It's hard to earn enough money even just to eat every
day. How could we say it is independent?

I wish there were no more ethnic riots and squabbles among the
political elite. The leaders should be honest and fair in an
attempt to make the country more independent.

Ivan, 28, has been working as a street musician for the past
two years. He comes from Semarang, Central Java, and lives in
Bekasi with his parents:

I don't experience the feeling of being independent.

How could I say I live in an independent country if so many
times I have to escape from the city public order officers who
try to crack down street musicians and vendors.

Do you think this is a real celebration of Independence Day?

I just enjoy the Independence Day festivities every August. I
feel the excitement of the commemoration as there is a lot of fun
in the programs held in the villages. But I don't really feel
that we are independent.

Angga, is jobless and homeless. He usually spends his time in
a public park in Blok M, South Jakarta. He comes from Lampung,
Sumatra:

Independence Day is good to celebrate, but I still feel
depressed. There is something that makes me feel enslaved.

In general I can say that the country physically is free from
the colonialists. There are no more countries under colonial rule
at the moment.
But ironically the people's rights have not been fully protected
yet.

The government only demands its people fulfill their
obligation as a citizen but forgets to grant its citizens their
rights. For instance, we have no freedom to live in the city,
regardless of my status now as a homeless person.

Agus, has been a street musician for the last three years. He
lives in Bekasi:

I don't feel the independence gained by the founding fathers.
Observing recent conditions, it's wrong to say that Indonesia has
gained independence. Many people are still living in poverty.

However, why should I think about Independence Day? Thinking
about how to survive today is much more important for me. Life is
hard, man!